Learning and Reflecting from an Internship Experience

In experiential learning and internships, the real learning comes after the work
term when you have an opportunity to think about what you saw and
experienced. Reflecting back about the experience is a key to learning and it is
definitely not a new idea. In fact, a famous lesson from Confucius around 450 B.C.
illuminates the importance of active engagement and real time experiences in learning:

“TELL ME, AND I WILL FORGET. SHOW ME, AND I MAY REMEMBER. INVOLVE
ME, AND I WILL UNDERSTAND.”

Nothing beats experience as the perfect learning tool. This Work Immersion gave us
a taste of the real world–a glimpse of what lies ahead after we graduate. It allows us
to apply what we have learned from books in a work environment and develops our
work values and attitude necessary to achieve the ultimate goal of education.

In my stay at the Engineering office, I was educated with knowledge about civil
engineering. We learned how to manipulate AutoCAD and was able to create a floor
plan. We also learned about Geotagging and measuring locations.

One of the most important things I’ve learned is that talent alone is not enough. It is
important, but it is not a guarantee to succeed. One must also be hardworking and
should practice self-discipline. Sacrifice is important, too.

I have also learned that OJT is not just a requirement to be completed but it is an
opportunity to show what skills, knowledge and talents I have and also an opportunity
to experience the feeling of being a professional already.

The training made me realize that it is really good to know what you’re doing and to
love it. As a student, what I can do for now is to learn whatever I can in school, be
inspired and love the path I am taking, and do my best in everything I do with positive
outlook in mind.

To sum it all up, I am glad for another experiences that I will treasure the most. There,
I have experienced new things that aren’t familiar with the things I usually do at school.
I have met new people. And learned something.